To be considered for a service dog through Dogs that Help, applicants must meet the following basic criteria and more. These requirements help ensure the safety, success, and long-term stability of both the handler and the dog.

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To be considered for a service dog through Dogs that Help, applicants must:

• Be a veteran with an honorable discharge or qualified first responder as defined on Applicant Eligibility Criteria form

• Provide required documentation (DD214, VA rating, or provider letter)

• Be actively under medical or mental health care for the disability

• Be able to commit to required training and ongoing follow-through

• Have a stable home environment and consent to a home visit

• Be financially able to provide ongoing care for a service dog

• Pass a background check and meet safety requirements

Additional requirements apply based on applicant type and program pathway.

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View Full Applicant Eligibility Criteria

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Note on Our Process

Admission into the Dogs That Help program is competitive and based on a comprehensive evaluation process. While applicants must meet the stated minimum eligibility criteria, meeting those criteria does not guarantee acceptance.

Dogs That Help reserves the sole and absolute discretion to approve or deny any application.